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Here is some of their advice, in their own words:

"Get involved. College is what you make of it. Go out make friends join a couple of organizations. Do things that help you figure out what college is going to make of you. Be active. Seek out every opportunity college throws at you. College si new and different and unlike anything you've experienced before." -Jessica

"Don't get too caught up in the party scene. It can ruin your college career. Don't take the friends you make for granted. You will never know how much you need them until you least expect it. Have FUN!!!!! These are the best years of our life and they will be over before you know it!" -Sarah

"Enjoy college and (do) not get too wrapped up in grades, and (do) not get frustrated easily, and also be nice to everyone you meet, you never know who you could end up being friends with." -Michelle

"Don't be afraid, just have fun." -Colin

"Have plenty of fun, but don't forget to keep up on your studies and go Greek." -Ann

"It may get hard, but stick things through. Know that you will make many mistakes (and you may have to make them a couple times) but learn from them. The most important thing is to remember why you are there, and never give up!" -Amanda

"Bring duct tape and extension cords." -Melanie

If your experienced friends are not providing the information you are looking for there are books available. Which book you need depends on what you are looking for. I found the book The College Woman's Handbook, by Rachel Dobkin and Shana Sippy, to be an invaluable resource. It answers just about every question you could possibly have and a few you haven't thought of yet. Another book is College 101, which provides a lot of good information about dorm life.

If you are still feeling in the dark try further exploring this Web site and it's links. I also recommend that you explore some of the following. Cyber Campus, a fun site mostly for entertainment, but worth checking out.College Life at MiningCo, a comprehensive site combing many valuable resources for easier surfing.

I have learned a lot about the ins and outs of Freshman year through my research. The most important thing I have learned is that each experience is unique and just like any other part of life you cannot be truly prepared. Expect the unexpected. Make your experience wonderful!

Email comments and questions to me at daisystar8@aol.com. Also let me know if you would like your opinions included in future articles.